Spotlight
Kelvin Gragg, Superintendent, Dumas School District says “I am very proud of every employee of the Dumas School District for the work he and she are doing to make this a successful start to the school year: Everyone has made my job much easier than it would normally be.”
One year ago, Kelvin’s older son retired from professional football and was trying to decide a career path. Kelvin simply shared with his son what his grandfather shared with him and that was to find a path in life that you enjoy and where you can help someone better himself or herself. Kelvin said, “Isn’t that what we all want to do, help students better themselves?” He found his calling, and it was to be in education. He would share this same advice with anyone— find a path in life that you enjoy and one where you can help people better themselves. His son is now coaching at the University of Memphis. Kelvin was one of the few that found his calling early on. All of his role models have been teachers and coaches. He knew after his playing days, he would be a teacher and a coach. His grandparents were educators as well, and each taught for over forty years. He had the privilege of being in his grandmother’s third grade class. From that moment forward, he knew he wanted to be in education.
Kelvin’s first job out of school was teaching social studies and coaching football at Monticello High School. After three years at Monticello, he moved to McGehee where he taught civics and coached football. He was fortunate enough to be part of two championship football teams there. After those two years, he moved to Warren where he spent the next twelve years teaching, coaching, and getting his first taste of administration. He serves as the dean of students for three years. In 2000, he moved into administration full time. He has served as a principal in Newport, Dumas, Crossett and Pine Bluff. In 2012, he was given the opportunity to serve as superintendent in the Dermott School District. In 2014, he moved to Dumas and has been there ever since. After many years in education his favorite thing about his job is developing relationships with young people. He is constantly being approached by young men and women who he has taught over the years. He doesn't always remember their names, but they remember him; and many share stories of their past and how they appreciate the guidance he provided them. He says, “There is no amount of money that can replace that feeling.” Dr. Tony Thurman, Cabot School District Superintendent, always introduces him as his 10th grade history teacher. That introduction and connection make him very proud of Dr. Thurman and their relationship. As he continues to impact the lives of students, they continue to impact his. He says, “ What amazes me the most is how resilient students are. Many times, we are the ones who create obstacles that our students must overcome. Our students want to do right. All we have to do is get out of the way and let them be successful.” He wants to be remembered as someone who served children with fairness and honesty. More importantly, he wants to be remembered as a devoted husband, a doting father, and a faithful friend whose word was his bond.
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5 October 2020
